Friday, October 28, 2011

Occupy?

A banker is a fellow who lends you his umbrella when the sun is shining, but wants it back the minute it begins to rain. Mark Twain
I think one of the most pervasive evils in this world is greed and acquiring money for money's sake. Once you have six houses and a plane, it's just about a number. It's never been anything I understood. Kevin Bacon
I don't think I understand the Occupy Wall Street protest. Los Angeles has its own group, of course. I have friends who are participating, supporting, etc. I'm not sure what their desired end purpose might be, though I've asked. I tend to be all in for finding solutions, and not so patient with folks who complain loudly but do little else.

I think we need businesses, corporations, and the profit/capitalism model (and innovation and research), but we also need more responsible corporations. Greed has probably always been a part of the culture at the top, but it does seem to be more pervasive these days (Could it be that I simply see it more because it is easier to see behind the curtain?). Seeking profit without conscience and without contributing back to the community, would seem to require more restriction, more regulation. Corporations and businesses who contribute to their community and act like responsible citizens should be rewarded. I don't know how we get there, or how to sort out the good from the bad, but it seems like a start.

Occupy Los Angeles
UprisingRadio
Laist:Occupy L.A.: Protest Group Will Move In at City Hall October 1
LA Times Editorial